The Période d'Essai (probationary period) is an optional but commonly used clause in French employment contracts that allows both employer and employee to assess the suitability of the employment relationship before it becomes fully settled. Statutory maximum durations under the Code du travail are two months for employees, three months for supervisors and technicians (agents de maîtrise), and four months for executives (cadres). Many conventions collectives set shorter maximums, which prevail if more favourable to the employee.
The probationary period may be renewed once, provided the convention collective expressly permits renewal and both parties agree in writing before the initial period expires. The total duration inclusive of any renewal cannot exceed four months for employees, six months for supervisors, and eight months for executives. These ceilings are absolute and cannot be extended by agreement.
During the période d'essai, either party may terminate without having to invoke a genuine and serious cause or pay statutory severance. However, the terminating party must observe minimum notice periods ranging from 24 hours to one month depending on how long the period has run. Termination of probation for a discriminatory reason or in bad faith remains actionable before the labour tribunal.